Despite multiple warnings from health authorities againgst mass gatherings, a massive crowd of well over 60 people congregated on Vancouver's Third Beach for a drum circle last night.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has ordered that no more than 50 people may gather at mass events, regardless of whether they are indoor or outdoor. However, videos and pictures from the gathering show a sprawling crowd of well above 50 people.
In addition to the number of people, the videos and images show that very few people were practicing physical distancing. What's more, very few people wore face masks, if any.
Henry tells Vancouver Is Awesome in a press briefing that there has been a great deal of confusion over what constitutes an event versus a gathering.
"There is a difference between events, where people go for a period of time in one area, versus going to a hardware store or a grocery store that's quite large where people are in and out. They’re not with each other gathering and doing specific things," she said.
A number of residents have vocalized their frustration and anger on social media, with many remarking that the people who attended the circle were selfish.
One person said, "This is just offensive."
Have a look at some of the images and videos from last night's gathering.
This is just offensive. pic.twitter.com/2NXNuyZWGa
— ryan (@schaaptop) July 22, 2020
Two days ago Dr. Bonnie Henry said B.C. is on track for “explosive” Covid-19 growth.
— Ashley Grace Burr (@AshleyBurr_) July 22, 2020
One day ago this viz was shot at Third Beach. @CityNewsVAN @NEWS1130 @BT_Vancouver pic.twitter.com/AZ2ZcVrk0i
"Trick photography"... pic.twitter.com/QumvGgsN1c
— ryan (@schaaptop) July 22, 2020
Was walking Vancouver's famous seawall in Stanley Park last night and stumbled upon the now viral Third Beach party pic.twitter.com/gKPn4zmvDJ
— Jared Gnam (@JaredGnam) July 22, 2020
The Mass Gatherings Events Public Health Act does not apply to the presence of workers at a worksite when engaged in their work activities, or to customers in a mall or retail establishment. It also does not apply to individuals attending an episodic vending market or to individuals at a campsite, in a park or at any other outside location when not attending an event.